Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for reconnectably coupling an aft vehicle to a forward vehicle in flight. A docking structure is affixed to the forward vehicle. A coupler has a line connection portion, a probe receiver port, and a plurality of aerodynamic controls. The probe receiving port receives and releasably retains a probe portion of the aft vehicle. A tow line has a proximal end, a distal end, and a line extension length. The proximal end may be attached to the tow actuation element. The distal end is connectable to the coupler. The tow actuation element is configured to adjust the line extension length. The aerodynamic control elements are configured to adjust lateral and vertical positioning of the coupler with respect to the probe portion when the system is in flight. Movement of the coupler is restrained with respect to the docking structure when docked thereto.

Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for carrying an aeronautical or launch vehicle to altitude for release to independent flight. The system may comprise one or more mounting elements affixed to a carrier aircraft along a mounting axis and actuatable from a retention configuration to a release configuration. The retention configuration enables the mounting elements to secure the vehicle to the carrier aircraft. Actuation from retention configuration to release configuration releases the vehicle from the carrier aircraft. A detent element is configured to restrict movement of the vehicle rotationally about, and axially along, a roll axis of the vehicle with respect to the carrier aircraft when the vehicle is secured to the carrier aircraft. The system may include an adaptor beam to which each mounting element is fastened, and by which the affixing is achieved. The retention configuration may enable the mounting elements to secure the vehicle beneath the carrier aircraft.